Lessons in Sincerity from Mbah Maimoen Zubair

The upcoming 35th Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Congress is more than a routine five-year event to elect new leaders; it is framed as a platform for civilization, a convergence of thought, hope, and communal responsibility amidst complex modern challenges. The author, Zainut Tauhid Sa'adi, a former Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs, argues that while congresses are often marked by dynamic discussions and leadership contests, NU requires a moral compass to maintain its spiritual core.

Sa'adi calls for the congress, to be held in Jombang, to be a space for introspection and reaffirmation of the organization's mission, rather than solely focusing on winning the top leadership positions. He stresses that NU's greatness is measured not by who leads, but by the preservation of sincerity, integrity, and noble character above all attributes of power. This perspective is deeply rooted in the teachings and example of the late KH. Maimoen Zubair, referred to as Mbah Maimoen.

The article recounts an event from the 2010 Makassar Congress, where Mbah Maimoen's actions provided a profound moral lesson. During a tight contest for the position of Rais Aam (Supreme Leader) between KH. MA. Sahal Mahfudh and KH. Hasyim Muzadi, Mbah Maimoen, who was respected for his impartiality, unexpectedly agreed to be nominated. This move, according to the author, transcended transactional logic and aimed to uphold dignity and brotherhood, serving as a moral manifesto.

Sa'adi, who accompanied Mbah Maimoen during the 2010 congress along with Mbah Maimoen's son, KH. Majid Kamil Maimoen, expresses gratitude for witnessing this event. He believes this episode offers inspiration and moral lessons for current and future NU leaders and cadres. The author urges them to ensure the upcoming congress remains peaceful, dignified, and focused on serving humanity and civilization, learning from Mbah Maimoen's example of prioritizing ethical conduct over the pursuit of power.